More than 1,100 business and community leaders attended the Bellevue Schools Foundation’s 25th anniversary Spring for Schools luncheon May 17, raising more than $596,000 for district schools and programs.

“This display of support for our schools is just incredible” said Bellevue School District Superintendent Dr. Tim Mills. The Bellevue Schools Foundation is making a difference in the lives of our students.”

Representatives from many different foundation-supported programs shared stories and information during the pre-event Education Showcase.

“This event demonstrates how much our community cares,” said foundation Executive Director Roxanne Kröon Shepherd. “The education a child receives today can change the course of their life forever. It’s our responsibility as a community to step up and give every child the education he or she needs and deserves.”

The presenting sponsorship for the event was provided by The Bellevue Collection and the Kemper Freeman Family. Boeing, Microsoft, Republic Services, Spee West Construction, and Union Bank contributed as valedictorian sponsors. In all, 50 companies and organizations partnered with the foundation as event sponsors.

Founded in 1979, Bellevue Schools Foundation has supported districtwide initiatives that lead innovation, support students in need, and help teachers maximize their effectiveness in the classroom. More information about the foundation is available at 425-456-4199, email info@bsfdn.org, or bellevueschoolsfoundation.org.

Jesus Cruz, student speaker from Bellevue Big Picture School. Photo courtesy of Rob Rose